Pope Francis has asked that Catholics worldwide spend this coming Saturday, September 7th in intense fasting and prayer for the intention of a peaceful solution to the conflict in Syria, and for the millions of men, women, and children who are suffering as a result of the violence in their country. Detroit's Archbishop Allen Vigneron also released a statement this morning asking that Catholics in the Archdiocese of Detroit join in this day of prayer alongside the worldwide Catholic community. Archbishop Vigneron wrote:

“We join with Christians and people of good will around the world in ardent prayer for peace in Syria. The Syrian people have suffered terrible violence, loss and displacement. We ask for God’s healing and protection for them, and to strengthen all those who are bringing humanitarian aid to them in this time of such crisis. Our hope is that, with God’s grace through the intercession of St. Mary, Queen of Peace, those who have the power to do so may bring this terrible situation in Syria to a peaceful end.” MORE.

Cardinal Timothy Dolan, president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has also released a statement calling on Catholics in the United States to heed the Pope's call. You can read Cardinal Dolan's statement and view other resources regarding the Crisis in Syria from the USCCB here. The Catholic News Agency also has more information here.

If you want to get started early, remember that Saint John Neumann has Eucharistic Adoration in the Tabernacle Chapel on Fridays from 9:30am-6:30pm. Stop by and pray for Peace!

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Contributors to this blog are teen leaders, adult team members, staff members, parents, alumni, and other supporters of SJN Youth Ministry.